Remove Stubborn Stains From Marble With A Staple Kitchen Ingredient

Imagine you've recently installed a marble countertop in your kitchen, achieving that luxurious feel you've been dreaming of for the space in which you've spent many happy hours. You've made a fantastic choice — marble undeniably elevates the look of any space. After a few days, though, you notice a stubborn stain caused by a coffee spill, a few drops of wine, or a splash of orange juice. The porous nature of marble is now causing you a real headache, and your gorgeous surface has suddenly transformed into a maintenance nightmare, even if you've managed to avoid all the common mistakes made by those with marble countertops.

Fortunately, you don't need professional cleaners or expensive products to get your marble looking flawless again. There is a secret weapon for removing stains from this surface: cornstarch, a kitchen staple that you probably already have sitting in your pantry. Because cornstarch is naturally absorbent, it is quite effective at lifting tough marks from marble without damaging it, and it's an incredibly easy process.

Using cornstarch to remove stubborn stains on marble kitchen countertops or floors is simple. If the stain is oil- or grease-based, though, the key is to quickly spot it before it can penetrate the surface too deeply. Pour on a generous amount of cornstarch, making sure to completely cover the stain. Let the cornstarch sit for at least 15 minutes before using a soft cloth to wipe it off gently. Clean the area with a solution of water and a mild soap, then repeat the process if needed. For stains of the non-oily variety that have sat long enough to dry, start by spraying the stained area with distilled water. Cover the stain with cornstarch, then let it sit for 24 hours before cleaning with soap and water.

With this simple method, you can avoid some of the common cleaning mistakes that might be staining your marble fixtures, like using acidic cleaners such as vinegar or lemon juice (which can etch the surface and worsen the damage). With cornstarch in your cleaning arsenal, maintaining the elegance of your marble surfaces becomes an effortless and budget-friendly task. Reach for this kitchen staple to take care of the next stain you spot on your marble surface — one of many unconventional uses for cornstarch around the house.